Former Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi has mourned the death of Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti, describing him as a principled leader whose contributions to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria will endure.
Fayemi, in a condolence statement personally signed on Wednesday, said the death of the elder statesman was a significant loss to the Yoruba people, Nigeria’s progressive political tradition and the wider Nigerian community.
He described Fasoranti as a father figure, mentor and former school principal whose influence shaped his personal and public life.
Fayemi said: “Baba Fasoranti was a remarkable leader whose strength lay not only in his convictions but also in his wisdom, fairness and ability to listen. He understood that leadership, particularly for a people with such a rich history and strong democratic tradition as the Yoruba, demanded patience, courage, inclusiveness and a constant commitment to the common good.
“He provided a steady moral compass at critical moments in our national life and demonstrated that it is possible to remain firm in one’s principles while treating others with dignity and fairness. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt.”
The former governor said his relationship with Fasoranti went beyond admiration for his leadership, noting that the late Afenifere leader offered him valuable guidance and counsel throughout his public life.
“For me, this loss is deeply personal. Baba Fasoranti was not merely a leader I admired from a distance; he was a mentor and father figure whose counsel I valued immensely. Over the years, I had the privilege of drawing on his wisdom, benefiting from his encouragement and receiving his honest assessment of issues affecting our people and our country,” he said.
Fayemi added that Fasoranti’s advice reinforced the importance of moderation, reflection and accountability in public service.
“His advice was often measured, thoughtful and grounded in enduring principles. He had a way of reminding one that public service must ultimately be judged by its impact on the lives of the people and that no political ambition should supersede the larger interests of society. I will always cherish the guidance he gave me and remain grateful for the privilege of learning from him,” he said.
The former governor also highlighted Fasoranti’s contributions to education, progressive politics, democratic development and the advancement of the Yoruba people.
He said the late statesman remained a custodian of the progressive ideals associated with Chief Obafemi Awolowo, particularly social justice, good governance and the improvement of living conditions for ordinary citizens.
According to Fayemi, Fasoranti’s commitment to democratic values and constitutional government helped sustain the progressive movement through difficult periods in Nigeria’s political history.
He said the elder statesman’s legacy was defined not merely by the length of his life but by the values he upheld, the causes he championed and the generations he inspired.
“Baba Fasoranti leaves behind a legacy of courage, integrity, service and devotion to the ideals of justice and good governance. His life reminds us that genuine leadership is not about the pursuit of power or personal recognition, but about the responsibility to serve, the courage to stand by one’s convictions and the wisdom to put the interests of the people first.
“The challenge before those of us who remain is to preserve these values and ensure that the ideals for which he stood continue to guide our political and public institutions,” Fayemi said.
He extended his condolences to the Fasoranti family, the people of Akure and Ondo State, the leadership and members of Afenifere, the Yoruba nation and all Nigerians mourning the elder statesman.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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